In the naxal-affected Kanker district of Chhattisgarh, a tragic incident unfolded when a 10-year-old boy, Mayank Patel, lost his life due to the alleged negligence of an intoxicated government doctor. This incident has sparked outrage and highlighted the severe consequences of professional misconduct in healthcare.
On a fateful Tuesday, Mayank Patel, suffering from severe abdominal pain, was brought by his family to the local government hospital in Koylibeda. The on-duty doctor, Dr. Sheetal Dugga, was reportedly in a highly intoxicated state and refused to treat the child. Despite the family’s desperate attempts to persuade Dr. Dugga, he remained unresponsive and allegedly used demeaning and foul language against them. With no alternative, the family decided to take Mayank to the district hospital. Tragically, the child succumbed to his condition en route, unable to receive the timely medical intervention he desperately needed.
The incident quickly gained public attention when a video of Dr. Dugga’s inebriated condition, captured by bystanders, went viral on social media. This footage prompted swift action from the authorities. Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Avinash Khare responded immediately upon receiving the complaint and the video evidence. An urgent visit to the Koylibeda hospital confirmed the doctor’s intoxicated state. As a result, Dr. Dugga was suspended, and proceedings for his termination were initiated.
The suspension of Dr. Dugga is a critical step, but it also underscores the broader issues plaguing the healthcare system in the region. The community health center where Dr. Dugga was employed is severely understaffed, with only six doctors on the roster. Dr. Dugga was the sole MBBS doctor present. Dr. A.K. Sambhakar is assigned to Antagarh, Dr. Deepak Sahu is on leave after completing his postgraduate studies, and Dr. Manoranjan Chara is pursuing further education. The remaining positions are vacant, significantly hampering the hospital’s ability to provide adequate healthcare services.
This incident has brought to light the urgent need for systemic reforms in the healthcare sector, particularly in remote and conflict-affected regions like Kanker. The lack of sufficient medical staff and the presence of professionals who do not adhere to their duties can have devastating consequences for the local population. It highlights the necessity for strict monitoring and accountability measures to ensure that healthcare providers maintain professional standards at all times.
The death of Mayank Patel is a stark reminder of the critical importance of reliable and ethical medical care. As the government moves forward with the termination proceedings against Dr. Dugga, it is essential to address the underlying issues of staffing and resource allocation to prevent such tragedies in the future. Ensuring that healthcare providers are sober, attentive, and available is not just a matter of professional duty but a moral imperative to safeguard lives.
SOURCE:
FREE PRESS JOURNAL
